For those of you who carry a firearm on your person every day, when you get home or when you go to sleep, do you secure that pistol somewhere? If you’re like me and you travel often, do you have a method that can travel with you?
For me, that’s where Vaultek comes in with the LifePod series. Specifically, the LifePod 20 with biometric access.
The Why
The LifePod 20 from Vaultek is a portable, waterproof, lightweight yet rugged lockable case that packs a lot of features into a small package. I’ve been using the LifePod since the original release around 2020, and it always has a spot in my luggage or backpack on trips. It easily slides into a pack or a suitcase for secure storage of my pistol or valuables during travel, whether I am driving or flying.
If a firearm is not on my person, it should always be secure — period. That means if I am camping, traveling or anywhere other than my home, I can secure my pistol while still having quick access via the LifePod 20 biometric feature or push-button code.
[Be sure to read our article on how to safely store a gun for home defense.]
Diving deeper into the specifics of the Vaultek LifePod 20 features — specifically how to access or lock your valuables away — the key feature that I appreciate about the LifePod 20 is the Biometric Scanner that can store up to 20 unique prints. I usually do both thumbs and pointer fingers as that gives me the most options to open the case depending on the situation or the orientation of LifePod.
As a secondary back-up, the backlit keypad accepts a total of four eight-digit master codes. Finally, the LifePod 20 also comes with two manual backup keys if the battery dies or for whatever reason the electronics aren’t functioning. To lock the case, you simply close the compression latches and press the lock button. Easy peasy.
For those who may be concerned about an electronic safe, you can expect the battery to last for about a year before you need to replace it. Since the battery is inside, there is also a USB outlet in the front of the case that allows you to power the safe if the battery dies. This is a well-thought-out feature that, for me, makes a world of difference in my adoption of safety technology.
The Details
LifePod 20 is incredibly rugged. It’s made from a T3 polymer that is drop-tested, airtight dustproof and waterproof, the perfect travel companion regardless of your environment. As far as what can fit inside the LifePod, that will depend on your belongings, but you can expect to fit a full-size pistol and additional magazine with ease.
The internal compartment measures 9.625”×7.25”×2.125”, tall enough for a full-size handgun up to 9.25”. Inside the LifePod, there are a few layers of foam as well as a top tray that gives you options for storing smaller items. The lid organizer has pockets embedded inside for cards, keys, papers and even an AirTag for tracking. The AirTag is sold separately, in case you were wondering. Another cool internal feature is an LED light that activates upon opening the LifePod, illuminating the inside in low-light situations.
The LifePod has an internal removable seal that, when shut and the latches close, compresses the lid to ensure your valuables are completely safe from the elements. So, not only are your items protected from being accessed, but they are also protected from elements. This comes in handy for me when I am taking trips locally, be it a staycation or camping trip where I am packing my truck out, driving on dirt roads, or keeping my LifePod in a vehicle, tent or pack.
Applications
Beyond how I utilize a LifePod, I can imagine them being useful for people such as parents who want a secure way to store their firearms in the home without a large bulky safe. The LifePod is also just a great travel companion to keep valuables such as jewelry, electronics or cash safe during transit.
What really sets the LifePod 20 apart from other portable lockboxes is how much thought went into the user experience. A lot of travel safes feel like they’re either overbuilt and bulky or too flimsy to trust with real valuables. The LifePod hits this sweet spot where it’s lightweight, rugged and smart without feeling over-engineered. The biometric scanner is fast and reliable, and between the keypad, backup keys and USB power option, you’re covered no matter what.
One thing I’ve grown to appreciate more over time is how customizable the inside is. The removable tray is perfect for organizing small items. I’ll throw in a watch, wallet, flashlight and keys, and if you want to get even more specific with your setup, Vaultek sells pluck foam so you can cut it to fit your gear exactly
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I also think it’s worth giving Vaultek some credit as a brand. While they’ve only been around since 2016, they’ve made a name for themselves by merging modern design with real-world functionality. You can tell they listen to their customers; the improvements from the original LifePod to the 20 are subtle but meaningful. They’ve built a reputation in the firearms space, but their stuff really appeals to anyone who’s into EDC, tech or just keeping their gear safe while on the move.
I appreciate the aesthetic of the LifePod as it doesn’t scream tactical at all. It has very sleek and modern styling that would feel right at home next to an Apple product. If someone were to get eyes on my LifePod, they likely wouldn’t peg it as a secure storage device right off the bat.
Conclusion
With the rise in people working from home, traveling and just generally being security-conscious, I think Vaultek has positioned itself well to service the tech-savvy market of firearms owners. For the last nine years, Vaultek has been integrating technology with security with great success. Their eye for design and reputation for reliable products make them a winner in my book.
In a world where people are traveling more, working from anywhere, or just wanting to be more security-conscious, the LifePod 20 fits into that lifestyle seamlessly. It’s not just a safe — it’s part of your everyday system.
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